A minor surgical operation to remove infections or cysts following a root canal.
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What is an Apicetomy?
Oral surgery involving treating the tip of a root in a tooth, usually as a last resort to retain a tooth.
In typical circumstances, at this stage, effort has already been made to keep the tooth, with treatment like a root canal.
Indications for Apicectomy
- When conventional re-root canal treatment has failed.
- It is impossible or difficult to treat the bottom third of a root with traditional treatment due to the complex nature of the root anatomy.
- The root has been damaged during other surgical work.
- The root tip has perforated (filling material pushed out of it).
- Persistent infection at the tip of the root that spreads to surrounding bone. This infection can only be removed by surgery.
- A cyst developed at the tip of the root.
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How is This Problem Assessed?
Based on your symptoms, the dentist, during a check-up, will take radiographs (x-rays) and evaluate what treatment possibilities exist to save the tooth and remove the infection.
What Does the Treatment Involve?
Apicectomy is carried out using local anaesthesia and is performed using micro-surgical endodontic equipment and the latest grades of microscope. Nervous patient? We can help.
The dentist will simply lift the gum and make a window in the bone, which allows the dentist to access the root tip and take a closer look.
The dentist can then treat the root. Your dentist is also able to remove any infection or cyst present. The tip of the root is then “filled” with a biocompatible filling material. You may require some stitches (sutures).
What Should I Expect After Surgery?
The area will feel slightly sore, and you may need to take painkillers if you experience post-operative swelling and redness. If symptoms continue, you may even be prescribed a course of antibiotics.
The tooth will then be closely monitored and re-evaluated during follow-up appointments. If the treatment has not been successful, then extraction may be your only option.
If you’re interested or have any further questions about apicoectomy, call our dental practice on 01992 827122, and we will be happy to help.